Pets are curious creatures, often exploring their surroundings and things they shouldn’t. One particularly hazardous area where pets can get into trouble is the medicine cabinets, where human medications are kept. Even with a small dose, certain drugs pose severe health risks for pets.
This guide outlines ten medications pet owners should keep out of reach to ensure a safe environment for their animal friends.
Ibuprofen
Most commonly known as Advil or Motrin, ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help relieve human pain and inflammation. However, even just one pill of ibuprofen can be fatal to cats and dogs due to their sensitive digestive systems.
Acetaminophen
Also known as Tylenol, acetaminophen is another NSAID that is toxic to pets. Ingestion of this medication can cause liver and red blood cell damage in cats, while dogs may experience liver failure and difficulty breathing. Pet owners need to notify owners to be aware of which products contain this drug and keep them out of reach of their furry friends.
Antidepressants
Medications such as Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft can be harmful to pets, especially cats and dogs. These human medications can cause a range of symptoms, including lethargy, vomiting, seizures, and, in severe cases, death. If you suspect your pet has ingested any medication, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care.
Benzodiazepines
Prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders in humans, medications like Xanax and Valium can have serious effects on pets when ingested. They may experience weakness, depression, lack of coordination, and difficulty breathing as a result of benzodiazepine toxicity.
ADHD Medications
Stimulant medications used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children can have dangerous effects on pets if accidentally consumed. These human medications include Ritalin, Adderall, and Concerta, and can cause elevated heart rate, blood pressure, tremors, seizures, and even death in pets.
Over-the-Counter Cold Medications
Common cold medications like Benadryl and Sudafed contain ingredients that are toxic to pets. While some veterinarians may recommend a specific dosage for pets in certain situations, it’s always best to avoid giving them these medications without professional guidance.
Antihistamines
In addition to being found in cold medications, antihistamines such as Claritin and Zyrtec can also be dangerous for pets. They may experience lethargy, vomiting, changes in heart rate, and difficulty breathing whenever they ingest these medications. It is important to keep all medications, including antihistamines, out of reach from pets.
Birth Control Pills
The hormones found in birth control pills can have serious effects on pets if accidentally consumed. Male pets may experience enlarged prostate and mammary gland enlargement, while female pets may experience estrus behavior changes and bone marrow suppression.
Cholesterol Medications
Medications such as Lipitor and Crestor, used to treat high cholesterol levels in humans, can cause severe problems for pets if ingested. Due to the high toxicity levels of these human medications, pets may experience vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, and seizures. In severe cases, pets may require hospitalization and supportive care to recover from the effects of these medications.
Topical Creams and Ointments
Even topical creams and ointments used for pain relief or human skin conditions can harm pets if ingested. These human medications may contain ingredients such as lidocaine or salicylates that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and central nervous system depression in pets.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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